Hearing Aid Batteries

Everything You Need to Know About Hearing Aid Batteries

Your hearing aids require a steady power supply in order to work properly, because even subtle changes in power output can affect performance, clarity, and volume control. Different hearing aids require different types of batteries — based on the size and power requirements of the hearing aid — to work properly. There are many variables that determine how long your battery will power your hearing aids. Rechargeable batteries, like the Z Power Rechargeable batteries, can be used in some hearing aids.

A standard “zinc-air” battery lasts anywhere from three to 22 days, depending upon the type of hearing aid, the capacity of the battery, and the amount of hearing aid use throughout each day. The smallest hearing aid batteries, used for 12 to 16 hours per day, may need to be changed every three or four days, while the largest hearing aid batteries used for only a couple hours each day may go several weeks without needing to be changed.

Non-rechargeable Batteries

To minimize battery drain, open the battery door when the hearing aid is not in use. That will turn the hearing aid off and help to dry out any accumulated moisture. But if the hearing aids won’t be used for an extended period of time (overnight, for instance), removing the battery entirely is the best method.

When storing batteries, keep them at normal room temperature (not refrigerated). When the battery dies, it should be removed. A completely discharged battery may swell and become difficult to remove from the small device.

How Do I Know When to Change My Batteries?

There are a few ways to know when to change batteries. Some hearing aids will emit a small beeping sound when the battery is low, while some will speak to the user, stating that a change of batteries is needed. Hearing aids that don’t emit warnings typically worsen in sound quality, become distorted, or simply die altogether. The hearing aids may become more quiet before the batteries die — an indication that it’s time to change them.

Note: If a change of batteries does not alleviate this problem, the device may be damaged, and it should be looked at by a hearing care provider.

To insert or replace batteries:

Clean dirt or oil from your hands so the tiny holes in the battery don’t get clogged.

Open battery door using nail grip.

Remove old battery (if necessary).

Remove new battery from package, and pull protective tab from battery. If possible, let the battery rest for 2-5 minutes so it can become fully activated with the air entering the holes.

The “+” sign on the flat side of the battery should face up in the battery door.

When battery is secure, close door.

How-To Videos

Change a RIC Battery

Change a Custom Mold Battery

Different Types of Batteries

There are four main sizes of batteries, each with a specific color-coded package: size 10 (yellow), size 13 (orange), size 312 (brown), and size 675 (blue). The battery size you need is typically based on the size and style of your hearing aid.

Standard hearing aid batteries are zinc-air, which are activated when exposed to air, so it is very important to keep them sealed in their packages prior to use. Keep batteries isolated from each other and from metal objects. Don’t remove the seal on a battery until 2-5 minutes before you want to insert into your hearing aid.

Battery Tips:

To help determine if a dead battery is the reason your hearing aid doesn’t work well, check the battery with a battery tester, or if you have another hearing aid that is working well, try the questionable battery in it.

Removing the battery tab allows air to enter through the tiny holes. It will take 2-5 minutes for the air to to fully activate the battery.

Do not force the battery door shut, as it may result in damage to the hearing aid or a broken battery compartment. If the door does not close correctly, check to see if the battery is correctly inserted.

Do not force the battery door open too far, as it may result in damage.

Dispose of used batteries immediately in a trash receptacle. Used batteries can harm children or pets if ingested.

Use of a hearing aid multicleaning tool with a magnetic end may be helpful in handling the batteries.

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